Essex have announced a new deal for spin bowler Aron Nijjar that will extend his time with the county until the end of the 2019 season.

The 24-year-old made his first-class debut against Leicestershire in May 2015 and has taken 16 first-class wickets whilst averaging 26.11 with the bat.

Having graduated from Cardiff University last year, where he also featured for Cardiff MCCU, Nijjar has become an integral part of the second XI and regularly captains the side.

He said: “Essex is a great club and I’m delighted to sign for another year.

“It’s a very exciting time for the club, we’ve got a great group pushing hard for trophies next season and I’m really looking forward to the 2019 campaign.”

Head coach Anthony McGrath is pleased to see Nijjar commit his future and added: “Aron is a great lad and still only 24. He has a lot of potential and we know how dangerous he can be with ball and bat. We’re thrilled to see him stay for another year.”